Choosing from the top 50 popular Chilean names for babies
South America’s Chile, a country that’s 2700 miles long and 109 miles wide, is home to more than 16 million residents. Notable for its incredibly long Pacific coastline, active volcanoes, and the mysterious Easter Island, the country is also the world’s fifth-largest exporter of wine.
Although Chile declared its independence from Spain in 1818, Spanish remains the official language — which is very much reflected in their most popular baby names.
With Chilean baby names, you can typically expect a blend of cultural richness and universal appeal. Whether you have Chilean heritage, love the culture, or are just looking for a unique name, this guide will offer you some fantastic options to consider.
Why consider Chilean baby names?
Chile has a rich culture, with influences from its indigenous roots as well as Spanish heritage. Names here often carry a blend of both worlds, offering a unique charm that’s hard to resist. Plus, many Chilean names are melodious and roll off the tongue, making them appealing options no matter where you’re from.
Names with cultural resonance
Chilean names often have strong cultural ties, sometimes even coming from indigenous languages like Mapuche. If you value names that are more than just pretty sounds, you might want to consider some of these options.
Names that travel well
Generally, Chilean names are easily pronounceable and are often recognized in various parts of the world. This makes them versatile choices for families who have a more global outlook.
Popular Chilean names for boys
Santiago – A timeless choice
One of the most popular names for boys in Chile is Santiago. Rooted in religious and historical significance, it’s a name that has been beloved for generations.
Benjamin – A modern classic
Benjamin is another name that enjoys considerable popularity in Chile. It’s a classic name that never seems to go out of style, offering both traditional and modern appeal.
Vicente – A name with a musical ring
Vicente is not just popular in Chile, but also in other Spanish-speaking countries. It’s musical and carries a sense of sophistication, making it an appealing choice for parents.
Popular Chilean names for girls
Isabella – A royal name
Isabella is a name that has been popular not just in Chile but around the world. With royal connotations, it’s a name that’s both elegant and timeless.
Sofia – A name with wisdom
Sofia is a name that originates from the Greek word for wisdom. It’s simple, sweet, and easy to spell and pronounce, making it a versatile choice for your baby girl.
Antonia – Strong and graceful
Antonia is a name that balances strength with grace. It’s a popular choice for girls in Chile and offers a unique yet familiar sound.
Gender-neutral Chilean names for babies
Andrea
In Chile, Andrea is commonly used for both boys and girls. With its soft syllables and universal appeal, it’s a name that breaks traditional gender boundaries.
Ariel
Ariel is another name that is often used for both genders. Whether you’re thinking of the angelic or the Shakespearean reference, Ariel is a name that carries a poetic resonance.
Top 20 baby names from Chile (2019)
Chilean girl baby names 1-20, in order of popularity
- Isabella
- Sofia
- Augustine
- Emilie
- Josefa
- Isidora
- Emma
- Trinidad
- Florence
- Juliet
- Maite
- Mary
- Amanda
- Antonella
- Martina
- Valentina
- Catherine
- Eleanor
- Renata
- Mia
Chilean boy baby names 1-20, in order of popularity
- Matthew
- Augustine
- Santiago
- Thomas
- Benjamin
- Luke
- Gaspar
- Alonso
- Vincent
- Maximilian
- Joachim
- Matthias
- Martin
- Joseph
- Lucian
- Facundo
- Julian
- Gabriel
- Maximum
- John
“By registering a son or daughter, parents can choose the name they want,” said Jorge Álvarez, national director of Chile’s Civil Registry and Identification Service.
“However, civil officers can make some observation considering that the law states that you can not use ridiculous names, [other] people’s names, or gender misconceptions.”
A to Z of popular Chilean names in the United States
Girls
- Amelia
- Antonia
- Camila
- Carolina
- Daniela
- Emilia
- Fernanda
- Gabriela
- Isabella
- Javiera
- Josefa
- Lucia
- Maria
- Natalia
- Olivia
- Sofia
- Valentina
- Veronica
Boys
- Antonio
- Benjamin
- Carlos
- Diego
- Eduardo
- Felipe
- Gabriel
- Hernan
- Ignacio
- Joaquin
- Juan
- Lucas
- Matias
- Nicolas
- Pablo
- Rafael
- Santiago
- Tomas
- Vicente
- Xavier
Unisex names
- Andrea
- Ariel
Top baby names from Chile (2010)
Looking back just a little further, these were the top 50 Chilean names for boys and girls in 2010.
Source: Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación, Chile – 2010